Denman Island News
Real-world happenings on Denman Island, surfaced from community sources (currently The Islands Grapevine) and correlated to island locations. Each item links to its sources.
The Denman Island Community Education Society announced in 2023 that after many setbacks, full funding has been secured for the Covered Recreation Space project, allowing the project to move forward. The project aims to provide a well-ventilated, covered outdoor space for community use.
community
The Denman Island Bus Service (DIBS) was relaunched in 2022 with improvements and a pilot community service running from May 21 to October 31. A dedicated 14-seater bus will serve island residents, including the north end, aiming to meet community transportation needs.
infrastructure · May 21 to October 31, 2022
The Comox Valley Regional District has amended its civil claim against Deep Water Recovery, as reported by allthingsunionbay.com.
governance · April 16, 2026
Installation crews are currently working on Denman and Hornby Islands to provide fibre internet connections. Residents are encouraged to sign up in 2026 to secure their connection before installation crews leave, after which installs will be limited.
infrastructure · 2026
In the Hilliers area of Denman Island, five sheep including a family pet named Shirley were killed by a pack of dogs. This incident follows a previous attack three months earlier involving six sheep.
emergency
To reduce congestion during peak summer sailings, BC Ferries is considering shifting the second vessel's sailing time by one hour on the Denman Island route. A public poll and discussion forum are open for feedback from April 1 to April 22, 2025.
infrastructure · June 19 – September 1, 2025
The Denman Island Food Bank Drive during the Easter long weekend collected over $3000 and numerous food and toiletry items, ensuring the food bank is well-stocked for at least three months. Donations can be dropped off on Thursdays between 4pm and 7pm.
community · Easter weekend 2023
A meeting to discuss restarting theatre activities on Denman Island is scheduled for April 23, 2023, at the Back Hall from noon to 3pm. The purpose is to explore forming an amateur theatre company and share relevant experience.
community · April 23, 2023
A plant sale fundraiser is scheduled for April 23, 2022, from 9:30 am to noon at the Recycling Centre to support the school garden and lunch program, featuring vegetables, annuals, perennials, bushes, and trees.
community · April 23, 2022
The Denman Island General Store operates with updated hours and offers a menu including beef and veggie burgers, fries, poutine, Korean-style fried chicken, and pizza, located at 3646 Denman Rd (the old bakery).
business
A Tool Repair Café event is scheduled for April 27, 2025, at the Recycling Centre to help residents repair garden and small household tools, including sharpening and welding services, sponsored by the Denman Island Climate Action Network.
community · April 27, 2025
The Unfaithful Servants, a Newgrass band from Vancouver Island, announced a tour of the Gulf Islands with special opening guest Adam Dobres, bringing live music performances to the region.
community
The Denman Island General Store updated its post office hours effective April 30, 2018, with weekday hours from 9 am to noon and 1 pm to 4:30 pm, and new Saturday hours from noon to 3 pm.
infrastructure · April 30, 2018
A fundraiser event including an English Tea Room and Collectibles Sale is scheduled for April 29, 2023, at the Denman Activity Center Lounge to support the renovation of the Graham Lake Swim Dock.
community · April 29, 2023
Kevin Mitchell and Steve Ireland were scheduled to perform at the Earth Club Factory/Guesthouse on April 3, 2026, as a CD fundraiser for their new album being recorded at The Barn Studio on Hornby Island.
community · April 3, 2026
An information meeting for the Denman ART Studio Tour was scheduled for April 9, 2026, to provide details about the upcoming event.
community · April 9, 2026
The deadline for 2020 Community Project Grants on Denman Island was extended to April 30, 2020, due to the public health emergency of COVID-19. Online application forms were made available with support contacts provided.
community · April 2020
The Denman Island Community Action Network (DICAN) held a Repair Café event on March 15, 2026, which was reported as exceptionally successful. Volunteers helped community members repair various items, with support from local experts and refreshments provided.
community · March 15, 2026
For the August 2019 long weekend, the Denman Island General Store announced special hours and a free spirits tasting event hosted by Brian from Shelter Point Distillery on August 3rd.
business · August 3-5, 2019
The Denman Island General Store announced adjusted hours for the BC Day long weekend in August 2018, including a whiskey tasting event hosted by Shelter Point Distillery on August 4th.
business · August 4-6, 2018
Several properties on Denman Island were listed and sold between 2018 and 2022, including oceanfront homes, acreage with views, and eco-friendly strawbale homes. Notable listings include a 3,100 sqft West Coast home on Dusty Rd and a waterfront home with 290 feet of ocean frontage.
development
An immersive show called GO FISH was presented at the Gathering Place on Denman Island from August 3 to 6, 2023, attracting close to 800 attendees. The film features footage of the herring spawn in the Salish Sea around Hornby and Denman Islands.
community · August 3-6, 2023
After a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19, the Denman Island Christmas Craft Fair is scheduled to run again on December 3rd and 4th, 2022, with applications opening online in September.
community · December 2022
Denman Hardware is holding an anniversary celebration on Saturday, September 9, 2023, from 12 to 2 pm, featuring free hotdogs, cake, a sale, and a chance to win a Denman Hardware T-shirt.
business · September 9, 2023
CityWest is installing fiber-optic internet connections directly to homes and businesses on Denman Island, with no outdoor wireless transmitters. Additional charges apply for driveway cable runs exceeding 80 meters. Existing underground sleeves may be used for cable installation.
infrastructure · August 2023
The wind ensemble Fanfarra Cinemática will present an evening of live music paired with the silent film 'The General' by Buster Keaton, featuring a score composed by Gregg Moore.
community · August 2024
The Denman Island General Store operates with varying hours throughout the week and offers a menu including beef and veggie burgers, fries, poutine, Korean-style fried chicken, pizza, panozzos, and rice bowls. Gluten-free options are available.
business · February 8, 2024
A proposed Rogers cell tower on Hornby Island has faced opposition from community members who argue that the location conflicts with a planned community housing project and that the island's remoteness is a valued characteristic. The debate includes concerns about visitor convenience and the necessity of ubiquitous cell coverage.
development · December 2022
Starting January 2022, Denman Island's garbage collection day changed to Thursday. The collection route was expanded to include Danes Rd., Pinecrest, Park Rd., and Swan Rd. The new service provider is Strathcona Recycling & Disposal.
infrastructure · January 2022
BC Ferries has proposed forming a partnership with federal, provincial, and local governments to increase funding and avoid fare hikes exceeding 30% over two years. The proposal maintains the current governance model, which has faced criticism for lack of accountability and past financial scandals.
infrastructure · December 11, 2025
As of December 2024, the Denman Island Post Office is closed due to a labour dispute. The General Store remains open with adjusted hours and services.
community · December 2024
Takeout Near You, a licensed dine-in and takeout restaurant offering burgers, fries, poutine, Korean-style fried chicken, pizza, panozzos, and rice bowls, opened at 3646 Denman Rd (the old bakery) with regular hours Thursday to Sunday.
business · December 2022
Starting January 2022, Denman Island garbage pickup day changed to Thursday with an expanded collection route including Danes Rd., Pinecrest, Park Rd., and Swan Rd. The new service provider is Strathcona Recycling & Disposal.
infrastructure · January 2022
At the annual DIRCS AGM on November 16, 2022, a new board was elected to manage the Denman Island Hall. The board is working on hall financing and maintenance transitions with new personnel.
community · November 16, 2022
The DICES Council and staff delivered 46 Christmas hampers filled with local baked goods, vegetables, treats, and gifts to community members in December 2021. The hampers were supported by donations of money, time, and gifts from the community.
community · December 2021
The Denman Island Post Office is closed until a labour dispute is resolved, affecting postal services on the island.
infrastructure · December 2024
The Denman Community Land Trust Association announced it will not complete the Pepper Lane Seniors Affordable Housing Project at the proposed Denman Road location behind the Guest House due to the landowner's unwillingness to wait for full construction financing. The project had secured rezoning, removal from the Agricultural Land Reserve, subdivision approval, and design plans, but the land purchase agreement required construction funding commitment by December 31, 2022.
development · December 2022
The Denman Island Community Education Society received a grant of $87,800 from the Capital Project Gaming Grant to create a covered recreation space on the concrete pad next to the community center. This project aims to enhance community facilities including laundry and computer support areas.
community · 2021
The Denman Island General Store operates with updated hours and offers a menu including beef and veggie burgers with gluten-free options, fries, poutine with vegan gravy, Korean-style fried chicken, pizza, panozzos, and rice bowls. The store is licensed for dine-in and takeout at 3646 Denman Rd (the old bakery).
business · January 2024
Installation crews from CityWest are currently working on Denman and Hornby Islands to provide broadband internet connections. Residents are encouraged to sign up in 2026 to secure their fibre connection before installation capacity becomes limited.
infrastructure · 2026
Preparations are underway for the 2026 Denman Art Studio Tour, set for August 15-16. Local artists are invited to participate in this annual cultural event that allows them to open their studios to visitors and boost art sales during the summer season.
community · August 2026
BC Ferries is developing a new engagement framework and is inviting input from coastal communities including Denman Island. They are hosting pop-up information booths at ferry terminals and onboard vessels to gather feedback and ideas.
infrastructure · February 2025
The Denman Island General Store operates with specified hours and offers a variety of food options including pizza, burgers, and Korean-style fried chicken. The store is licensed for dine-in and takeout and is located at 3646 Denman Rd (the old bakery).
business · February 2026
A community information meeting was announced regarding affordable housing for all ages on Hornby Island, organized by the Hornby Island Housing Society.
community · February 2021
CityWest announced an expansion of its fibre-optic project on Denman Island, increasing the budget by $2.1 million to add 238 homes to the project scope, aiming to provide fibre-optic services to 95% of occupied properties. Construction began in fall 2025, starting on Pickles Road and Owl Crescent.
infrastructure · Fall 2025
Denman Island Chocolate is hiring a production team member for 3-4 days a week, 8 hours a day. The position offers permanent steady work.
business · February 2023
The Denman Island General Store is seeking a part-time employee aged 19 or older. Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Jennifer by phone or leave a resume at the store's front till.
business · January 2025
Dr. Natalia Rybczynski of the Canadian Museum of Nature uncovered fossils of a giant ancient camel on Ellesmere Island, Nunavut, dating back 3.5 million years during a global warming period. This discovery provides insights into the evolutionary history of modern camels.
environment
A Seed Trade and Info event with vendors and presentations on backyard medicines, land linking, and seeds & climate change will be held on January 25, 2020, at the Community Hall from 9:30 AM to 2:30 PM. Admission is free with donations accepted.
community · January 25, 2020
The Denman Island Memorial Society (Green Cemetery) is holding its Annual General Meeting on January 14, 2019, at the Conservancy Room in the Old School building.
community · January 14, 2019
The Earth Club Factory is planning an expansion of its bistro to improve the performance space by adding 16 feet to the end of the bistro, including a large clear glass garage door to enhance summer use.
business · Winter/Spring 2018
Denman Green is holding its Annual General Meeting on January 26, 2019, at the Activity Centre Lounge to update residents on the status of the affordable housing project. Residents can become members by providing their name and address with no dues required.
governance · January 26, 2019
ADIMS is inviting the community to a presentation about upcoming research on herring and microplastics in Baynes Sound, scheduled for January 20, 2019, at the Seniors Activity Centre.
community · January 20, 2019
The Denman Island Community School, Parent Advisory Committee, and Community Education Society are organizing a Trivia Night event at the Community Hall on Saturday, February 17, 2024, featuring games, food, and prizes for all ages.
community · February 17, 2024
Starting January 2022, Denman Island's garbage pickup day changed to Thursday with an expanded collection route including Danes Rd., Pinecrest, Park Rd., and Swan Rd. The new service provider is Strathcona Recycling & Disposal.
infrastructure · January 2022
The Denman Health Centre Society held its Annual General Meeting on January 10, 2022, electing a new Board of Directors including Keith Clark as Vice Chair and Jennifer Villard as Chair.
community · January 10, 2022
The Denman Island Community Choir spring session starts on February 1, 2024, at the Community Hall at 2:30 pm. Newcomers may try the choir for free for the first two sessions. The session costs $120 to $140 on a sliding scale with bursaries available.
community · February 1, 2024
Tai chi classes begin Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at The Gathering Place (United Church) with sessions from 8:30 to 9:30 and beginners from 9:30 to 10:30. A trial class is available for $15.
community · January 7, 2025
Starting January 2022, Denman Island's garbage collection day changed to Thursday with an expanded collection route including Danes Rd., Pinecrest, Park Rd., and Swan Rd. The new service provider is Strathcona Recycling & Disposal.
infrastructure · January 2022
The Denman Island General Store is seeking a part-time employee aged 19 or older. Interested applicants are asked to contact Jennifer or leave a resume at the store.
business · January 2025
A letter criticizes BC Ferries governance and transparency, citing past exemptions from Freedom of Information laws, redacted documents, and lack of accountability regarding financial and operational data, including for the Denman Island cable ferry.
governance · January 2026
Takeout Near You, a licensed restaurant offering beef and veggie burgers, fries, poutine, Korean-style fried chicken, pizza, panozzos, and rice bowls, is open Thursday to Sunday at 3646 Denman Rd, the old bakery location.
business · January 2023
There is community discussion about the importance of increasing cell phone signal on Denman Island to improve emergency services, highlighted by a story of a medical emergency during a hike. The topic raises debate about balancing modern conveniences and safety with preserving the island's natural character.
community · January 2023
Starting January 2022, Denman Island's garbage collection day changed to Thursday with an expanded route including Danes Rd., Pinecrest, Park Rd., and Swan Rd. The new service provider is Strathcona Recycling & Disposal.
infrastructure · January 2022
The Denman Housing Association is designing a 20-unit affordable housing project called Denman Green in downtown Denman. The project includes sustainable features such as treated rainwater supply, greywater reuse, solar energy, and adherence to BC Energy Step Code standards.
development · January 2022
Corlan has resumed offering lunches in a new format with advance notice sent to a mailing list. The tasting room is open Tuesday to Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm.
business · January 2025
The Denman Island General Store operates with updated hours and offers a variety of food options including pizza, burgers, Korean-style fried chicken, and vegan options. The store is licensed for dine-in and takeout at 3646 Denman Rd (the old bakery).
business · July 2024
The Denman Island Garden Society is preparing for the Fall Fair on August 31, 2025, including the Show What You Grow exhibit and a new scarecrow contest. Volunteers are being sought to help with judging and other tasks.
community · August 31, 2025
From July 29 to 31, 2022, the Denman Island Community Hall will host chamber music concerts featuring works by Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninoff performed by local musicians.
community · July 2022
A community meeting about the Denman Housing Project is scheduled for July 26, 2025, at the Denman Island Community Hall. Islands Trust staff will present information on housing topics including density bank, accessory dwelling units, cluster housing, and lot size and floor area limits. Trustees and staff will also be available at the Denman Island Farmers Market to engage with community members.
governance · July 26, 2025
The Denman Community Association urgently requests donations of good used books for their September book sale. Without sufficient donations, the event may be canceled.
community · September 2023
Seventeen University of Victoria students will participate in a two-week field school on Denman Island in August 2025, focusing on themes such as mutual aid and collective decision-making. The program includes organizing a community feast on August 24 at the Community Hall, in partnership with Farm to Family.
community · August 24, 2025
The Denman Island General Store marked the 10th anniversary of its current owner and manager, Daryl McLoughlin, known as the 'Grumpy' boss, who took over in July 2010. The store has been a community fixture since 1908.
business · July 2020
Dr. Wilson is scheduled to retire at the end of 2022. Efforts are underway to secure a service contract to continue providing physician services on Denman Island to maintain high-quality health care for residents.
community · End of 2022
The Denman Island General Store operates Thursday to Sunday from 12pm to 8pm with a menu including beef and veggie burgers, fries, poutine, Korean-style fried chicken, pizza, panozzos, and rice bowls. It is located at 3646 Denman Rd in the old bakery building.
business · June 12, 2025
The Denman ART Studio Tour is planned for August 16 and 17, 2025, featuring 23 artists showcasing their studios from 10am to 4pm. A preview show will be held at the Summer Art Gallery with an opening reception on July 10, 2025.
community · August 16-17, 2025
DICES is offering a summer season of programming including a Day Camp running from July 10 to August 10, Monday to Thursday, 10 am to 2 pm, and an Afternoon Camp from 2 pm to 3:30 pm. Camps are designed for children aged 6-12 (or 5 if finished kindergarten) with some programs for youth aged 9-14. Subsidies are available.
community · July 10 - August 10, 2023
A candlelit vigil will be held at the Denman Dock next to the ferry terminal on Saturday, June 18, 2022, at 8:30 pm to celebrate the lives of those who have died or been injured in the past two years. The event is a spontaneous celebration of life and community as people emerge from the shadows of COVID-19.
community · June 18, 2022
The 2019 Denman Island Home & Garden Tour, a benefit for the Denman Conservancy, will feature 12 properties showcasing architectural gems, stunning gardens, and spectacular views. Tickets are available at Abraxas and the Denman Island General Store.
community · June 15-16, 2019
As of June 2021, the Denman Island Post Office has changed its weekday opening time to 9 am, operating Monday to Friday from 9 am to 12 pm and 1 pm to 4:30 pm, with Saturday hours from 12 pm to 3 pm. The Post Office remains closed on Sundays and holidays.
infrastructure · June 2021
The Denman Art Studio Tour is planned for August 16 and 17, 2025, from 10 am to 4 pm, featuring 23 artists showcasing their studios. A preview show will be held at the Summer Art Gallery from July 11 to 16, with an opening reception on July 10.
community · August 16-17, 2025
Corlan Vineyard on McFarlane Road is hosting a Canada Day celebration on July 1, 2025, from 1 to 5 pm featuring live music by Ram Sudama's Trio, charcuterie boxes available for order, and their award-winning wines. The event offers ample safe parking and requests no dogs on site.
community · July 1, 2025
Starting June 30, 2022, the Hornby Bus began operating on Denman Island seven days a week from 8:15 am to 8:35 pm, providing local transit service for residents and visitors.
infrastructure · June 30, 2022
The Denman Green affordable housing project has progressed with the Denman Local Trust Committee approving third reading of related bylaws following a public hearing on May 30, 2022. These bylaws are now with the Islands Trust Executive Committee for ratification before Ministry of Housing approval and final adoption by the local committee.
development · November 2021
Several properties on Denman Island were listed and sold between 2018 and 2022, including oceanfront homes, acreage, and commercial zoned properties, with prices ranging from approximately $379,000 to over $1.3 million.
development
Denman Island Quilters hosted a luncheon for Hornby Island Quilters, including a show and tell of quilts and a gathering at the United Church and lawn chairs in front of the church.
community · June 2023
The Denman Island General Store will be open with special hours on July 1-3, 2023, while the post office will be closed on July 1-3.
infrastructure · July 1, 2023
The Denman Island General Store will have special holiday hours for the July 1st long weekend in 2018 and 2023, with varied opening and closing times for the store and post office.
infrastructure · July 1, 2018
The Denman Island Community Education Society is looking for a new Executive Director. The permanent position is 30 hours per week with a salary range of $23-$27 per hour, and applications are due by July 14, 2022.
community · July 2022
The Denman Island Home & Garden Tour is set for June 11-12, 2022, featuring 13 properties. Tickets are available at local stores and proceeds benefit the Denman Conservancy Association.
community · June 2022
Friends of Denman Forests are compiling information and testimonials to advocate for BC Ferries to provide a direct summer ferry route to Hornby Island and to manage excess Hornby ferry traffic at Buckley Bay to improve traffic safety and protect trees at Gravelly Bay.
infrastructure
The Denman Island Home and Garden Tour will take place on June 11 and 12, 2022, from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. featuring 13 properties. Tickets are available at local stores and proceeds benefit the Denman Conservancy Association.
community · June 11-12, 2022
A peace vigil in support of Ukraine is scheduled for Friday, March 11, 2022, at 5:00 p.m. on the Anglican Church lawn on Denman Island. Participants are encouraged to bring a candle.
community · March 11, 2022
Denman WORKS! will hold its Annual General Meeting on Thursday, March 31, 2022, at 7:00 PM via Zoom. Interested participants must register by emailing denmanresource@gmail.com to receive the Zoom link and meeting documents.
governance · March 31, 2022
The Denman Housing Association Annual General Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, March 29, 2022, at 5 p.m. via Zoom. Meeting documents and the Zoom link will be posted on the association's website on March 21.
governance · March 29, 2022
A Repair Café event will be held on Sunday, March 15, 2026, from 1 to 4 pm at the Recycling Centre on 5901 Denman Road, where local experts will offer sharpening, repairs, and maintenance services for tools and equipment.
community · March 15, 2026
The Comox Strathcona Waste Management Board approved targeted tipping fee increases effective April 1, 2025, raising fees for industrial, commercial, institutional, household solid waste, drywall, clean fill, and construction waste at regional waste management centres.
infrastructure · April 2025
Installation crews are currently working on Denman and Hornby Islands to deploy fibre internet connections. Residents are encouraged to sign up in 2026 to secure their fibre connection before installation opportunities become limited.
infrastructure · 2026
The Denman Island Community Education Society (DICES) announced a Food Bank Drive scheduled for April 8, 2023, to support ongoing food bank operations as pandemic emergency funds diminish. They also offer community health presentations including Naloxone education and community paramedicine sessions.
community · April 8, 2023
Due to the COVID-19 outbreak in March 2020, local businesses such as Ima's Kitchen closed temporarily, while Denman Hardware remained open with enhanced hygiene and delivery options for customers in quarantine. Community halls and services adapted to pandemic conditions.
emergency · March 20, 2020
Auto-compiled from public community sources; we report the subjects under discussion, not opinions. Spotted an error? Report a correction.